Figured I'd share my awesome experience ending up with this particular guitar....
I did about two weeks worth of research so it is awesome to be able to share that info with others because it was a lot of work lol. I ended up choosing Quimper Sound Guitars and Music in Washington State, outside Seattle. Very random yes. But, I found them through Reverb, they had the best tops I had seen, and then I was getting quotes, ended up calling their shop (weird because I hadn't called any others) and the owner answered and was awesome to talk to. I was sold at that point, I hadn't even heard the price, I just knew from their Reverb auto offer that it was in my range. The owner, James, gave me his personal cell number and told me to text him questions and specific guitars I wanted to see pics or videos of because he keeps all the new PRS core models in a warehouse behind the store so no one can play them....which is also really awesome. On the day I bought it, he sent me a video with my top 3, showing the entire guitar front and back, neck, etc. Then he sent me an invoice that allowed me to split payments because I asked him if there was any way I could do that...he was great. This is a long story because I realize it took me about a month to get to the point of buying one, so I feel like I have a really good idea of the market right now. This is easily the best deal you will get, and they have a really good selection. They also just had a PRS rep day so he has 16 more unlisted Core models he's getting to this week. If you are in the market for one, contact them and ask for James. I ordered and paid at noon, it was shipped out set up and ready to go by 2 pm. I've never had a better major purchase experience. I hope this helps and yes, it's a ringing endorsement all around. I've sent about 10 people there already.
Here's the shop link:
Discover Quimper Sound Records and Guitars, your local Puget Sound destination for new and used vinyl, PRS and Gibson guitars, and exclusive gear. We buy records and offer a curated selection of guitars and pedals. Visit our Port Townsend store or shop online for unique finds and personalized...
www.quimpersound.com
Highly highly recommend. Good luck! - Adam
